Provinces set for Champions Cup return

Today is the beginning of a crucial two weeks for Irish Provinces in Europe.

The European Champions Cup and Challenge Cup resumes with the first of the crucial back to back games.

First up, all eyes on Munster.

The two time European winners face their biggest test of the season so far as they welcome French Top 14 giants Clermont to Thomond Park.

Despite Munster's opening two wins in the pool, the French outfit are clear favourites.

Kick-off in Limerick is at half-past five, but the opening game in Pool 1 will be the meeting of Sale and Saracens at 1pm.

There's a late kick-off at Kingspan Stadium in Belfast where Ulster will play host to the Scarlets in a Pool 3 contest that kicks-off at 7:45.

Connacht are also back in action in the European Challenge Cup. Pat Lam's side will be looking to pick-up their second win of their Pool 2 campaign as they host Bayonne at The Sportsground. Kick-off in Galway is at 5pm.